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A NASCAR BLOG BY Carolyn Brewster

Stewart gives back to charity

May 14
While thumbing through the May issue of NASCAR Illustrated, I stumbled upon a picture of Kevin Harvick picking what appears to be a piece of white paper off a slab of meat. Reading further, I realized that piece of meat is none other than Tony Stewart and the paper was actually a strip of fabric used in spas for waxing.

I knew about the challenge Stewart issued (and Harvick jumped on) that, for a $100,000 donation to the Victory Junction Gang Camp, Smoke would have his back waxed. But the picture of Stewart earned him kudos for not only motivating Harvick and Stewart fans to donate money but also for giving every fan a huge laugh at his expense.
   
I’ve had my eyebrows waxed many times (as, I’m guessing, have some of the Hendrick drivers). It’s amazing how much pain can be inflicted by a tiny piece of fabric yanking off a thin layer of hot wax to take stray hairs with it. I’m convinced that, centuries from now, future generations will look back in amazement at what our culture did to be “beautiful” – not unlike how we view the old Chinese tradition of binding feet. But the fact waxing is very accepted in our culture today doesn’t make it any less hilarious to watch as a large man sheds his furry coat in the name of charity.
  
NASCAR drivers are, for the most part, good about using their success and fame to raise money for different causes. Understanding that not all drivers have the genetic “gift” of back hair to use as a goodwill offering, I truly appreciate the creative fundraising idea.
 
But even less invasive than hair removal (and slightly more popular) is the fifth anniversary of NASCAR Day. Not only are drivers great about raising money for charities but so are race fans. NASCAR Day is a way for everyone, not just those covered in paraffin, to be part of a unified effort to support some very good charities. This year, Garth Brooks is the spokesman, and although he has appeared in several ads promoting the day, I have not heard any rumors that he will be following Stewart’s creative fundraising
tactic.
   
As a fan, I love how the racing community embraces philanthropy. If you already have your NASCAR Day pin, congratulations. If not, it is never too late or early to check into your favorite driver’s charity and support it.

And for those who contributed part of the $100,000 ($125,000 was actually raised) that laid Stewart out on the waxing table, thank you. Not only did your money go to a great charity, but seeing Tony endure the sadistic beauty ritual was worth every penny.

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